Papy Bongibo came to Maine in 2010 and is now the President of the Congolese Community of Maine. The Congolese population in the state numbers about 2,000 strong. The organization works to solve common barriers many immigrants experience: housing, education, workforce and childcare. Presently, CoCoMaine is conducting a survey about the child care needs throughout the community so that they can develop an affordable and accessible parenting cooperative. You can learn more about their organizing efforts on their facebook page: cocomaine.Papy is not only the leader of CoCoMaine but he is also the founder of New England African Arts, Entertainment and Community Association which brings big name artists overseas to create a vibrant arts community to Maine venues.